Often confused with oregano, which is sometimes called wild marjoram, Origanum marjorana has been given the name sweet marjoram to distinguish it from other species of Origanum. The leaves are smooth, light to dark green, and oval in shape, while the flowers have reddish bracts that bloom from the end of June throughout August. It is native to Cyprus and Turkey and is now cultivated all around the world for its culinary uses and medicinal purposes.

History of Sweet Marjoram

The ancient Greeks believed that sweet marjoram helped nurture love and happiness. They made wreaths of this herb that they used to crown newlyweds and added it to their food to promote happiness and civility. The women also used it to predict the fate of their love lives – they would place it under their pillows and it is said that they would dream about their future husband.

It was the Egyptians that mainly used sweet marjoram to treat various ailments, such as wound-healing, preserving, and disinfecting. It was also used in the 1500s to give chambers a pleasant smell, as well as a perfume used in bath mixtures.

Sweet marjoram is now widely used in cooking different dishes. It is used as a flavoring herb in poultry, lamb, beef, veal, fish, and vegetables, as well as an ingredient in stews, sauces, and dressings, and marinades.

Sweet Marjoram Nutrition Facts

For every 28 grams (1 ounce) of dried sweet marjoram leaves, you will get the following nutrients:

Top 10 Health Benefits of Sweet Marjoram

Decreases the risk of Alzheimer’s

Aside from strengthening the bones and helping in normal blood clotting, vitamin K also decreases the risk of contracting neurodegenerative diseases. Regularly consuming sweet marjoram will provide sufficient vitamin K to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, which is prevalent among the elderly.

Balances free radicals

Our body needs a good balance between free radicals and antioxidants for it to function properly. Oxidative stress happens when free radicals overwhelm the body, triggering various diseases. Sweet marjoram contains plenty of flavonoid antioxidants that balances the free radicals and detoxifies the body.

Maintains a healthy eyesight

Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that are essential in maintaining a healthy eyesight since it protects against potential eye damage by filtering high-energy wavelengths of light. Fortunately, sweet marjoram is a rich source of these carotenoids.

Soothes body pain

The analgesic properties of sweet marjoram essential oil soothe headaches, joint pain, and muscle pain. Simply apply the oil on the affected are and gently massage to relax the tense muscles.

Relieves digestive problems

For people who are experiencing stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, and diarrhea, drinking sweet marjoram tea can help relieve your digestive problem due to its carminative effects.

Healthy herbal tea with Marjoram

Inhibits fungal growth

This herb also contains antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungal infections on the skin and prevents sickness caused by fungal growth.

Combats diseases and infections

Vitamin C, which is abundant in sweet marjoram, fortifies the immune system, reduces the severity of allergic reactions, and speeds up wound healing. It also combats cancer, atherosclerosis, and metal toxicity.

Reduces fatigue and anxiety

The essential oils of sweet marjoram are widely used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, depression, fatigue, and anxiety by acting on the central nervous system, thereby restoring the individual’s physical and emotional well-being.

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